C Spire, one of the largest telecommunications companies in the US, has decided to pull all advertisements from the Paris Olympic Games 2024 following the controversial opening ceremony.
In an unprecedented display of inclusivity, drag queens took the spotlight and showcased the vibrant and influential role of the French LGBTQ+ community. Initially, the queens stood along the runaway, watching the models, before eventually joining in to showcase their own styles. One of their performances included a scene reminiscent of Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper,” featuring the performers arranged in a tableau similar to Jesus Christ and his apostles.
Held along the Seine River, the magnificent four-hour event featured global stars such as Celine Deon and Lady Gaga, both regarded as queer icons.
However, the performance ignited widespread backlash and criticism, with many terming it “blasphemous” and “anti-Christian”. Several religious leaders, politicians and right-wingers have expressed their disapproval, resulting in several companies pulling their advertisements out of the Paris Olympics. C Spire led the way, proclaiming that the opening performance was a “mockery” of Leonardo da Vindi’s “The Last Supper”
of the Last Supper during the opening ceremonies of the Paris Olympics. C Spire will be pulling our advertising from the Olympics.
— C Spire (@CSpire) July 27, 2024
While many, including the Governor of Mississippi, Tate Reeves have hailed the company’s decision, several have also questioned the company’s animosity and intolerance shown towards the LGBTQ+ community during an event meant to signify global unity.
“My company uses your services. We’ll be changing providers. We can’t do business with a spineless company that bows to the radical right,” one user asserted.
“I will be contacting you very soon about changing my wireless service!” another added.
Later, Thomas Jolly, the artistic director of the ceremony, addressed the controversy in a media briefing. He emphasized that the act was meant to promote inclusion, not mockery. “When we aim to include everyone and exclude no one, questions can arise,” he explained, according to FOX News.
